How to Use the Enneagram

The Enneagram is a powerful tool for personal growth, but to truly unlock its potential, it’s important to use it in a way that encourages self-awareness, understanding, and transformation. Understanding your Enneagram type is just the first step. To get the most out of the Enneagram, you need to apply its insights to your daily life, relationships, and personal development journey. Here’s how to make the most of the Enneagram and harness its power for growth.

1. Awareness of Self

The first key to using the Enneagram effectively is self-awareness. Once you’ve identified your Enneagram type, take time to reflect on how your core motivations, fears, and desires influence your thoughts and behaviours. For example, if you’re a Type 1 (The Strict Perfectionist), you may notice how your drive for perfection can lead to frustration or self-criticism. If you’re a Type 2 (The Considerate Helper), you might recognise how your desire to be loved can sometimes lead to putting others’ needs ahead of your own. By becoming more aware of these patterns, you can start to notice when they arise in your life and begin making more conscious choices. New to the Enneagram types? Explore the 9 Enneagram types here.

2. Awareness of Others

Next, use the Enneagram to improve your relationships. Understanding your own type is crucial, but so is understanding the types of those around you. When you understand how different types perceive the world and what drives their actions, you can communicate more effectively and empathise with others. For instance, if you’re in a relationship with a Type 5 (The Quiet Specialist), you may recognise their need for space and solitude, and respect that without taking it personally. On the other hand, if you’re a Type 7 (The Enthusiastic Visionary), you might recognise how your need for excitement can sometimes overwhelm a more grounded partner. The Enneagram encourages empathy and helps you navigate these differences with compassion.

3. Awareness of Blindspots 

The Enneagram also provides a roadmap for personal growth. Each type has a set of strengths, but also areas where they can become stuck or unbalanced. By learning about these tendencies, you can start to work on the areas that may be limiting your potential. For example, a Type 3 (The Competitive Achiever) might become so focused on success that they lose touch with their true feelings. By recognising this, they can make more time for introspection and reconnect with what truly matters to them, rather than just focusing on external validation. Each type has a path of growth, and understanding where you fall can help you take actionable steps towards becoming a healthier, more balanced version of yourself.

4. Awareness of Triggers

Another way to best use the Enneagram is to view it as a tool for overcoming challenges. Whether you’re facing personal or professional obstacles, the Enneagram can help you approach these situations from a place of insight rather than reaction. For example, if you’re a Type 6 (The Loyal Sceptic), your tendency to seek security can sometimes lead to anxiety or doubt in uncertain situations. By recognising this, you can take steps to manage your fear and build confidence in your decision-making. The Enneagram helps you understand your reactions and gives you the tools to respond in a way that’s more aligned with your growth goals.

5. Patience

Finally, integrating the Enneagram into your life requires patience and ongoing self-reflection. It’s not about achieving perfection, but about recognising your patterns and making incremental improvements. Regularly revisiting your type and how it shows up in different areas of your life helps you stay on track with your personal growth. Engaging with the Enneagram through coaching, journaling, or conversations with others who are familiar with the system can deepen your understanding and encourage continued development.

In conclusion, the Enneagram is a tool that, when used consciously, can lead to profound personal growth, improved relationships, and a deeper understanding of your motivations. By developing self-awareness, empathising with others, focusing on growth areas, and using it to navigate challenges, you can make the Enneagram an invaluable part of your personal development toolkit. It’s not a one-time discovery, but an ongoing process that can help you become the best version of yourself, both personally and professionally.

Incorporating the Enneagram into your life can be a transformative experience, but it’s often helpful to have guidance along the way. If you’re ready to dive deeper into understanding your Enneagram type and use it as a tool for growth, our expert coaching services can support you every step of the journey. Whether you’re looking to enhance your self-awareness, improve your relationships, or unlock your full potential, we’re here to help you integrate the Enneagram into your daily life. Contact us today to start your transformative journey with the Enneagram!